Some time ago, we visited Nanzhuang Old Street. Nanzhuang Township is the second largest in the Miaoli county and is situated at an elevation of 120-2200 meters above sea level. The majority of the population in Nanzhuang is comprised of Hakka people, with some Saisiya and Atayal aboriginal groups.
The development of Nanzhuang started during the Qing Dynasty, and it was one of the areas for camphor and coal mining during the Japanese era. In 1935, Nanzhuang was severely destroyed by an earthquake. The Japanese then reconstructed the street, creating a landscape of two-story Japanese-style wooden buildings. On Nanzhuang Old Street, you can find an old theater that has been transformed into a restaurant, as well as a post office that was rebuilt after the earthquake. You can also see Naimuqi, which are stone leaders built for the convenience of residents. Nanzhuang is also famous for its osmanthus lanes, osmanthus syrup, Hakka dishes, and egg rolls. On holidays, the street is bustling with people.
You can also visit Yongchang Temple, located next to the Old Street and post office. This temple was built in 1905 and is dedicated to the Three Officials. The temple was initially constructed at a lower level but was destroyed by an earthquake. In the 1950s, it was rebuilt in its current location.
See also newer post about Nanzhuang: HERE Neiwan Old Street (內灣老街)
When we visited Neiwan Old Street, it was bustling with people and food stalls everywhere. In the past, this street was prosperous due to lumbering and mining activities. However, the town's prosperity declined over time, and the old street does not showcase any distinctive architectural style like the baroque-style buildings found in other old streets. The buildings in Neiwan Old Street have a similar style to other old neighborhoods in Taiwan.
Neiwan Old Street is well-known for its Hakka culture and food. With the decline of mining and forestry, the street's prosperity has diminished. In 1951, the Neiwan Liujia Line was constructed to attract tourists to the town. On Neiwan Old Street, you can find an old theater that has been transformed into a Hakka restaurant, where old movies are also played. The police station in this area also features Japanese architectural style and is the only police station in Taiwan where cars are not permitted to enter. Additionally, in front of the police station, there is a centuries-old osmanthus tree.
Nearby the Old Street, you can also find Guangji Temple (廣濟宮), which has a history of 100 years and is dedicated to the Three Officials.
Address:
1. NanZhuang Old Street: No. 6, 文化路南庄鄉苗栗縣353南庄老街
2. Neiwan Old Street: 312新竹縣橫山鄉中正路內灣老街
